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THE playing future of men's doubles Koo Kien Keat-Tan Boon Heong is safe at least until the World Championships but appropriate action will be taken against them if they fail to achieve the target of reaching the final set by the BA of Malaysia (BAM).

BAM secretary Ng Chin Chai, who is also the coaching and training committee (CTC) chairman, said Kien Keat-Boon Heong will still play in the World Championships in Guangzhou in August but also confirmed that emphasis will be given to backup-pairs Goh V Shem-Lim Khim Wah and Tan Wee Kiong-Hoon Thien How in the build-up to the major event.

Kien Keat-Boon Heong's performance has hit rock bottom and their latest failure came when they lost to scratch pair Lee Sheng Mu-Tsai Chia Hsin which saw Malaysia suffer a shock 3-2 defeat to Taiwan on Sunday.

Chin Chai also pointed out that discipline, or the lack of it, is the other factor BAM will monitor and action will be taken against Kien Keat-Boon Heong if they slack in training or tournaments;

"BAM has given them until the World Championships and we will allow them to compete in other major events. However, we will take action if they fail to achieve the target of reaching the final," said Chin Chai.

"We will not just focus on their preparations for the World Championships as V Shem-Khim Wah and Wee Kiong-Thien How will also be given equal attention so that they will be able to perform in the major event.

"Discipline will also be under scrutiny and should Kien Keat-Boon Heong be found to be involved in any wrongdoing, action will be taken immediately. The same applies to other national pairs."

Time is running out for Kien Keat-Boon Heong and BAM taking a firm stand against them is the only way they can be disciplined and prevent younger players from falling into the same rut.